Active incident — 25% contained. The Corky Fire broke out around 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, near Van Zandt County Road 3406 and Highway 64, just outside the city of Wills Point, Texas — about 57 miles east of Dallas. Driven by dry conditions and winds near 17 mph, it grew from 75 acres to more than 400 acres within about four hours. Highway 64 is closed, 34 structures are in the fire's path, and residents in the area have been evacuated. Two firefighters were hospitalized for heat-related injuries and are expected to recover. No homes had been reported damaged as of the latest update. This article will be updated as containment figures change.
The Myrtle Springs Volunteer Fire Department first reported the grass fire Thursday afternoon, and it spread rapidly through dry vegetation as wind pushed it west toward more homes. Crews from Van Zandt County, Kaufman County, and the surrounding region converged to help contain the blaze as heavy smoke blocked nearby county roads.
How Fast the Corky Fire Grew
| Time (Thursday) | Size |
|---|---|
| 4:19 p.m. | 75 acres, 5% contained |
| 5:45 p.m. | 150 acres, 5% contained |
| 8:30 p.m. | 400+ acres, 25% contained |
The fire doubled in size roughly every hour through the early evening before containment progress caught up with it. Video from the scene showed farm equipment engulfed in flames as the fire moved through fields west of Van Zandt County Road 3412 toward 3416, prompting officials to warn residents along that road to stay alert.
Evacuations and Road Closures
Officials evacuated residents along the fire's path as it spread quickly through the area, and Highway 64 was closed near Van Zandt County Road 3406 for firefighting operations. Heavy smoke blocked visibility on neighboring county roads, and the public was asked to avoid the area entirely. As of the latest update, no homes had been reported damaged, though 34 structures remained in the fire's direct path.
Who Responded
The Myrtle Springs Volunteer Fire Department led the initial response, with additional crews from across Van Zandt County, Kaufman County, and the surrounding region providing mutual aid. Two firefighters were taken to the hospital for treatment of heat-related injuries during the response; officials said Thursday night that both were expected to recover.
Part of a Stretched North Texas Fire Season
The Corky Fire ignited while crews elsewhere in North Texas were already deep into fighting the much larger Ross Fire, which has burned more than 85,000 acres across Palo Pinto and Jack counties west of Fort Worth since igniting the previous Monday. Dry, windy conditions across the region have kept fire crews on alert for new starts even as they work to fully contain the larger blaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Corky Fire contained?
As of Thursday night, August 27, 2026, the Corky Fire was 25% contained after burning more than 400 acres. Check the live sources below for the current figure, as this fire is very new and changing quickly.
Is Highway 64 closed?
Yes. Highway 64 near Van Zandt County Road 3406 is closed while crews work the fire. Drivers should use alternate routes and avoid the area.
Have any homes been destroyed?
No. Officials said no homes had been reported damaged as of the latest update, though 34 structures remained in the fire's direct path.
What caused the Corky Fire?
The cause has not been released. Dry vegetation and winds near 17 mph contributed to its rapid spread.
Where to Get Live Updates
- Texas A&M Forest Service — official incident size and containment updates.
- Van Zandt County Sheriff's Office — local alerts and road closure information.
- Myrtle Springs Volunteer Fire Department — on-scene updates.
- Local broadcasters — NBC 5, WFAA, Fox 4, and KETK provided on-the-ground coverage.
This article will be updated as containment increases or if evacuation guidance changes. Verify any update against official Van Zandt County channels before making safety decisions.
Comments 0
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
Leave a Comment